As the world emerges from the lingering effects of the pandemic, the CEO of global conglomerate Davidson is expressing cautious optimism about the prospects for 2026. In a wide-ranging interview, CEO Samantha Winters highlighted several key factors that she believes will drive growth and recovery in the coming years.
Tailwinds from Recovering Global Economy
Winters pointed to the continued rebound in major economies around the world as a positive sign. "We're seeing strong growth projections in China, Europe, and other key markets," she said. "This global lift will provide valuable tailwinds for many of our business units." The International Monetary Fund has forecasted global GDP growth of 4.4% in 2026, a significant acceleration from the sluggish pandemic years.
Boost from Mega-Events in the US
Winters also expressed optimism about the impact of several high-profile events scheduled to take place in the United States in 2026. "The Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, the FIFA World Cup, and the US presidential election will all generate tremendous economic activity and media exposure," she noted. Analysts estimate the LA Olympics alone could drive over $7 billion in direct spending.
The Bigger Picture
What this really means is that after a prolonged period of uncertainty and disruption, the global economy appears poised for a resurgence in the coming years. While challenges like inflation and geopolitical tensions remain, the confluence of improving macroeconomic conditions and high-profile events in the US is giving business leaders like Winters reason for optimism. As the world looks to move past the pandemic, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for recovery and growth.